Written and reviewed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Brett Beber, MD, FRCS(C)
Head, Division of Plastic Surgery, Michael Garron Hospital
Lecturer, University of Toronto
Program Director and Co-Chairman, Toronto Annual Breast Sur gery Symposium
When someone is considering a prominent cosmetic surgery procedure like breast reduction, it becomes essential to spend time learning about the process. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the surgery can help make the experience less stressful. Once you have an appointment with the surgeon, you must compose a list of vital questions to ask the breast surgeon at your consultation.
The patient’s first objective should be to address any concerns or questions about the surgery. This will aid in making a well-informed decision regarding breast reduction. While the surgeon will explain the procedure during the consultation, you will gain a clearer understanding if you come prepared with questions. But what should you ask?
To help you with your breast reduction surgery consultation in Toronto , we have curated a list of 10 questions to get you started:
Important Questions to Ask Breast Surgeons
Are you a board-certified plastic surgeon?
When a plastic surgeon is board-certified, it indicates that they have undergone the essential training and gained the necessary experience in plastic surgery. This certification process involves specific training, education, and passing both comprehensive oral and written examinations. If your surgeon is board-certified, you can have greater confidence that they will clearly explain the procedure and perform the surgery safely and successfully.
How experienced are you in performing breast reduction surgery?
Not all board-certified plastic surgeons are experts in breast surgery. It’s important to ask your surgeon these questions:
- How many years have you been doing breast reduction surgeries?
- How many breast reduction surgeries have you performed?
- How often do you perform this surgery?
You should feel confident that your surgeon has enough experience to reduce your breast size and shape it to match your body frame.
Am I a candidate for breast reduction surgery?
You can be a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery if:
- You are mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy.
- Breasts are too large compared to your body size.
- Your breast weight affects your posture.
- The weight of the breasts causes physical pain, skin irritation, or discomfort, including back, neck, or shoulder pain.
- You feel uncomfortable or self-conscious about your breast size, especially in public.
Can teenagers have breast reduction surgery?
Yes, teenagers can undergo breast reduction surgery. However, it’s important to note that breasts typically continue developing until around the age of 18 or even later. If a teenager has this surgery, they may require another procedure in the future if their breasts continue to grow. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having breast reduction surgery at a young age.
How much can my breasts be reduced?
After examining you, the surgeon will inform you about the amount of breast tissue that can be safely removed. They must leave enough tissue to ensure proper healing of your skin and nipple. The surgeon will consider your preferences and collaborate with you to achieve results that are both safe and align closely with your desires.
How should I prepare for breast reduction surgery?
To prepare for surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions and make a checklist of personal tasks.
Your surgeon can ask you to:
- Take any prescribed medications or adjust current ones as advised.
- Complete lab tests or a medical exam if required.
- Get a recent mammogram.
- Stop smoking for six weeks before surgery and at least eight weeks post-surgery
- Do not take any anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, or herbal supplements to reduce the risk of bleeding.
What happens during the breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery involves four main steps:
- Anesthesia – General anesthesia will be administered to put you in a deep, sleep-like state and keep you comfortable during the surgery.
- Incisions— Before surgery, your surgeon will determine the optimal form of incision for reducing breast size and achieving your goals. Your surgeon will make incisions around your areola (the circular patch of skin surrounding the nipple) and vertically or horizontally along the breast.
- Tissue Removal – Your plastic surgeon will eliminate extra skin, fat, and breast tissue. The procedure involves resizing the areola and repositioning your nipple.
- Closing the incisions – The surgeon will use sutures, tape, and adhesives to close the incisions and wrap bandages around the surgical site and your chest.
What happens immediately after surgery?
Immediately following breast reduction surgery, you should expect the following:
- Breast reduction surgery typically takes two to four hours.
- You will remain under anesthesia for approximately three hours. It is often an outpatient process.
- You are going to be in recovery till the anesthesia has worn off.
- You will not feel pain until the anesthesia wears off, but your surgeon will advise you on when to take medication to relieve it.
Will I have scars following surgery?
Most breast reduction scars resemble an anchor or a keyhole, but they gradually fade over time, significantly fading within a year. Your surgeon will advise you on reducing scarring by using specific ointments or creams on the scars and avoiding sun exposure.
When can I return to school or work following breast reduction surgery?
If your healing is progressing, you can return 1- 2 weeks after breast reduction surgery. However, if your profession, school, or training includes physical activity, you may require additional recovery time at home.
Have Your Questions Answered with a Breast Reduction Consultation
Dr. Brett Beber, MD, FRCSC, is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 18 years of practice. He performs dozens of breast reduction procedures each year and is one of the best breast implant specialists in Toronto. When you request a breast reduction consultation with Dr. Beber; you will have the opportunity to discuss your precise surgical objectives, ensuring that your expectations are correctly understood and achieved.